The McCartan Family

McCartan family crest

(Crest No. 259. Plate 54.)

THE McCartan family is descended from Milesius, King of Spain, through the line of his son Heremon. The founder of the family was Saran, son of Caolbhach, last King of Ulster of the race of Ir. The ancient name was Carthan and signifies “Friendship.” The possessions of the clan were located in Donegal and Queens Counties.

The McArtans, or McCartans, were also chiefs in the County of Leitrim and in Kinel Fogartaigh (Fogarty), now the baronies of Kinelarty and Dufferin, in the County of Down, where the McArtans are still numerous.